SLOW MOTION

Rick Davies brings the band back for one more album, and seemingly just does what he wants, without necessarily trying for hits or commercial success. A breezy, laid-back affair, as Rick settles into some bluesy jazz grooves with fun melodies and extended instrumental jams (some songs are quite reminiscent of later Steely Dan). This gives sax and woodwinds man John Helliwell more chances to shine, as well as Lee Thornburg on trumpet, Mark Hart on guitar, and of course, Rick on keyboards. The extended tracks Tenth Avenue Breakdown and Dead Man's Blues shine the brightest, but most of the rest, including Little By Little, Broken Hearted, and a revived song from early in the band's history, Goldrush, a sort of Southern Cajun Country track, are just lovely. Overall, just a very nice, pleasant album that may not have the thrills and dynamism of their most acclaimed work, but is still a wonderful album nonetheless. Best Tracks: Tenth Avenue Breakdown, Broken Hearted, Dead Man's Blues, Little By Little, Bee in Your Bonnet, Goldrush. Weak Tracks: Over You, Slow Motion. Rating: 3.5 stars